Lucian immediately put away his work and asked worriedly, "Who is he?" Images of Roxanne leaving with a stranger last night flashed before his eyes.

"The man's name is Colby, and he's the head of the VR Research Institute. Mr. Farwell previously sought medical treatment from him."

Cayden sensed the shift in the room's atmosphere and spoke cautiously. "Furthermore, I discovered Colby is single. However, Ms. Jarvis doesn't appear connected to him. They might have known each other from medical school."

Lucian's expression softened. "Anything else?"

Cayden hesitated. "That's all I've uncovered. Regarding Ms. Jarvis, we only know she recently returned to the country. Her activities and whereabouts overseas remain unknown."

Lucian frowned, displeased but deciding against further questioning. "How is Old Mr. Queen?"

Cayden, relieved Lucian changed the subject, sighed. "He's not doing well. They've consulted leading doctors domestically and internationally, to no avail."

Lucian nodded slightly. "Reschedule my engagements for tomorrow night. I'm visiting Old Mr. Queen."

"Understood," Cayden replied.

After waiting a while, Cayden left, assured there were no further instructions.

Upon arriving at the research institute, Roxanne and Colby immediately contacted Horington's medical ingredient suppliers. Due to shortages, many projects were stalled, threatening spiraling losses. Securing a supplier was crucial.

Colby had previously contacted Horington suppliers, but his proposals were rejected. Desperate, they tried again.

"VR Research Institute? We've discussed this! Your offer is too low! We're not interested!"

Roxanne's mention of the institute elicited an immediate rejection.

Roxanne gritted her teeth. "We can increase our offer by half a decimal point. Let's negotiate a feasible plan—"

The supplier interrupted, "Still too low. We need at least three decimal points more, or there's no negotiation."

Roxanne hung up. Colby looked equally grim.

"I'm sorry, Dr. Galloway. Our supplies are booked. We have none available." The response was clearly an excuse.

Colby simply replied, "All right, I understand," and hung up.

After a day of calls, there was no positive news by the next afternoon. While some suppliers were courteous, others impatient, none were willing to collaborate. Worse, one supplier explicitly stated they would never work with the VR Research Institute, without explanation.

It was clear they were being sabotaged, likely by Aubree.